I'm just beginning my 5th year with this car, score so far was 3 good years and 1 bad.

The compressor clutch appears to be loose. I can see the plate in front of the pulley oscillating like it's catching on something then being let go. When I hit the A/C button, I get an acrid rubber smell. So I haven't used the A/C or defroster since this started last week. Question: is it safe to drive the car, albeit no A/C? The FAQs don't seem to address the issue of "drive it" or "tow it" in this condition. I got home fine and everything works and sounds normal except for a hollow metallic sound(like a drum) when I'm idling or when I start the engine. I'm not driving it to work for the time being, but I do plan on driving it when I take it to the shop.

I'm waiting for callbacks with quotes to replace the compressor and clutch assembly.

Thanks in advance!